Christine is the former Chief Executive of C4EO (Centre for Excellence and Outcomes in Children and Young People’s Services). C4EO’s aim was to identify and disseminate ‘what works’ in order to significantly improve the outcomes of children and their families, working with every Local Authority in England, Health Services and the Voluntary and Community sectors.

She established and led the previous Government’s ‘Narrowing the Gap’ national programme which identified leading practice in improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people and helping close the ‘gap’ between advantaged and disadvantaged groups.

She was formerly the Director of Children’s Services, Telford & Wrekin Council (1997–2007) and under her leadership, the Council was awarded Beacon Status for ‘Integrating Children’s Services’ and ‘Early Intervention (Children at Risk)’ and Centre of Excellence (Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit). Christine was the President of the national Association of Chief Education Officers.

Previously a teacher, psychologist and Director of Education, Christine has advised the British Government on education, child poverty, safeguarding and early intervention and has also advised the Australian, Netherlands and Russian Governments. She has been an adviser to the LGA Children and Young People’s Board on all aspects of children’s services and supported the development of leadership training for Directors of Children’s Services, through the National College and the Virtual Staff College.

She is currently a member of the Youth Justice Board for England and Wales; sits on the Advisory Board for the Office of the Children’s Commissioner and chairs two Local Authority Children’s Improvement Boards.

Christine was awarded the CBE for an outstanding contribution to education.